Unfounded accusations at work, a rebellious teenager, an unpaid mortgage, nagging illness—the hardships my colleague was experiencing seemed overwhelming. 

I listened without comment. What could I say? He surely didn’t need a lecture on how to endure hardship. 

My heart ached for him. My mind searched for a helpful response. When he paused to take a drink of water, I said, ‘I’d love to solve even one of these problems for you, but I can’t. But I can and I do pray for you.’ 

I picked up my Bible, opened it to Philippians 1, and said, ‘Here’s what Paul prayed for the Philippians. It’s what I’m praying for you: that God will give you depth of insight so that you may be able to discern what is best, and that your behaviour in each matter will bring glory to God.’

Just hearing those words comforted my friend. He smiled and said, ‘You’re a good friend. I’m praying for you, too.’

‘I’m always willing to listen. It helps me pray more often and more specifically for you,’ I told him.

People don’t usually need advice. Instead God calls us to be listeners and intercessors.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, our great high priest, bring someone across my path today who needs to be encouraged. Amen